During the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend, Nikola Jokić and LeBron James shared several memorable moments that highlighted their mutual respect and camaraderie.

LeBron James Praises Nikola Jokić

Ahead of the All-Star Game, LeBron James lauded Jokić’s exceptional skills, stating

“He’s one of the best players to ever play this game. It’s that simple. He does everything. The most important thing is he changes the way his teammates think about their own play. When you’re able to inspire your teammates to play at a level that sometimes they don’t even feel like they can play at, that’s the true testament of a great one.”

Lighthearted Interactions

The duo’s interactions weren’t limited to on-court play. In the locker room, Jokić playfully tapped LeBron’s backside, a gesture that amused fans and showcased their friendly rapport. This moment quickly went viral, with fans drawing humorous comparisons to comedy sketches.

Additionally, during the game, LeBron joked with Jokić about his age, quipping that his first All-Star appearance was in 1968 alongside legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Bob Cousy. This jest elicited laughter from Jokić and highlighted the lighthearted atmosphere of the event.

Mutual Respect

These interactions underscore the deep respect between the two players. While Jokić is celebrated for his unique skill set and leadership, LeBron’s acknowledgment of Jokić’s impact on the game further cements their mutual admiration.

For a visual recap of their All-Star interactions, you can watch the following video: